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Durham Prosthodontics
Durham Prosthodontics

Durham Prosthodontics
Your Durham, NC Dentist


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Caring for your Dentures


Dentures soaking overnightProper care is essential to maintain oral health and the longevity of dentures. Whether you're new to dentures or have been wearing them for years, these guidelines will keep your dentures clean, comfortable, functional, increase their lifespan, and reduce the need for refittings.

Daily Denture Cleaning Routine


Your dentures require daily attention just like natural teeth. Every evening, remove your dentures and clean them thoroughly. Please use a soft-bristled denture brush, regular toothbrushes are too abrasive. Clean all surfaces of the dentures, and pay special attention to the grooves that fit against your gums, as well as any crevices around the artificial teeth.

Regular toothpaste is not designed for dentures. It contains abrasive ingredients that can create microscopic scratches where bacteria can grow. A gentle denture cleanser or mild soap with warm water works well. Please do not use hot water, it can warp the denture material, and make them uncomfortable, which requires a refitting.

Overnight Care


Dentures should not be worn overnight. Gums need time to rest and recover from the pressure of wearing dentures throughout the day. Remove your dentures before going to bed, and store them properly in a container filled with water, or in a denture soak solution. The overnight soak keeps dentures from becoming too dry. This can cause them to lose their fit, or become damaged.

Regular Maintenance


Even with excellent daily care, dentures require regular professional attention. Schedule dental checkups at least once per year to have your dentures examined and professionally cleaned. Our team uses professional tools to remove plaque and tartar that cannot be cleaned at home. We also check for a proper fit. A poor fit causes discomfort, and even with perfect maintenance, adjustments are necessary as the structure of the mouth changes over time.

Signs That Your Dentures Need Attention


Be alert to any changes in how your dentures feel or function. Watch for:
•  Loose or slipping dentures
•  Clicking sounds while eating or speaking
•  Mouth sores or irritation
•  Changes in bite alignment
•  Cracks or chips in the dentures
•  Stains that won't come off with regular cleaning


If you experience any of these issues, please contact us at (984) 312-7056 to schedule an appointment.

Handle With Care


Always handle your dentures over a folded towel or a sink filled with water. Dentures may break when dropped on a hard surface. When you clean them, be gentle. Bends and drops often require a refitting or replacement.

Additional Tips for Long-Term Care


•  Rinse dentures after every meal to remove food particles
•  Clean your mouth with a soft toothbrush or gauze after removing dentures
•  Use an ultrasonic cleaner for deeper cleaning, but this is not a replacement for daily cleaning and soaks
•  Do not use peroxide, teeth whiteners, or any other bleaching products, these weaken dentures
•  If using adhesive, ensure all old adhesive is removed before applying new
•  Schedule regular dental appointments to keep a proper fit, and to maintain great oral health


With proper care and attention, your dentures will provide years of comfortable use, and allow you to speak, eat, and smile with confidence.
Copyright © 2024-2025 Dr. Geoffrey Cunningham and Dr. Kyle Gazdeck and WEO Media (Touchpoint Communications LLC). All rights reserved.  Sitemap | Links
Dr. Geoffrey Cunningham and Dr. Kyle Gazdeck, 3709 University Dr Suite D, Durham, NC 27707 + (984) 312-7056 + mydurhamdentist.com + 1/15/2025 + Page Keywords: dental implants Durham NC +